Barcelona youngster Giovani dos Santos is hoping to get the nod to face Real Madrid in this weekend's top-of-the-table showdown at the Nou Camp.

With Lionel Messi sidelined for up to five weeks and question marks over the fitness of Thierry Henry, there could be opening up front for Barca, and Mexican teenager Dos Santos is keeping his fingers crossed coach Frank Rijkaard will give him the opportunity.

"To play against Real Madrid would complete a dream. Every player in the world would want to play in this game some day, and do it at 18 years old would be impressive," said Dos Santos, who insists he will not be upset if he is not called upon.

"I won't be disappointed if I don't play. The coaches know which players are more capable of playing. I am recovered from the injury that I had, and it seems to me that in the last game I played quite well.

"If I can play I will do as well as possible, but this is a decision for the coaches."

Real, the reigning Spanish champions, are four points clear of Barcelona heading into the match on Sunday.